Tanzania Declares End to Marburg Virus Outbreak, WHO Commends Response

The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed Tanzania’s declaration of the end of the Marburg virus outbreak, attributing the successful containment to swift and coordinated efforts between national health authorities and international partners.

The outbreak, which was initially reported in January 2025, affected the Kagera region in northwestern Tanzania. A total of ten cases (two confirmed and eight classified as probable) were recorded, all of whom succumbed to the virus. After 42 consecutive days without new cases since the last confirmed patient, the outbreak has been officially declared over, following WHO protocols.

In response to the outbreak, Tanzania’s Ministry of Health, in collaboration with WHO and other partners, quickly implemented containment measures. These included strengthening surveillance, enhancing laboratory testing, and training over 1,000 healthcare workers in case management, contact tracing, and risk communication. Additionally, more than five tonnes of medical supplies were distributed to affected areas.

WHO Representative in Tanzania, Dr. Charles Sagoe-Moses, commended the rapid response, emphasizing the crucial role of health workers and local authorities in preventing further spread. He also highlighted the need for continued vigilance and psychosocial support for families affected by the outbreak.

Marburg virus disease, a severe and highly fatal hemorrhagic fever, belongs to the same virus family as Ebola. Symptoms often start suddenly with high fever, intense headaches, and severe fatigue, progressing to internal and external bleeding in severe cases. The virus is transmitted through contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals or animals, particularly bats and non-human primates.

With Tanzania successfully containing the outbreak, health authorities and international organizations continue to monitor the situation to prevent future occurrences. WHO has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting countries in strengthening disease surveillance and response systems to combat infectious diseases effectively.